>> Outcomes and taking teams.
Coverage of the governor, Andy Beshear, sports, state of the Commonwealth address that he will make to a joint session of the Kentucky House and state Senate live from the House Chambers this evening.
I'm Renee Shaw and we appreciate you joining us.
I'm joined in the studio by 2 political observers who are frequently on to it and the Wickliffe in Sherman, Brown, both are with McCarthy.
Strategic Me as a Republican strategist and Sherman is a Democratic strategist and they'll be chiming in on their insight throughout the program tonight.
We'll also have our Casey Parker Bell who's on the House floor this evening.
He'll be getting reaction from Democratic leaders and then the Republican leaders, legislative leaders will come on over to the annex where we are here in the Capitol Annex building.
Our studio here and we'll get reaction from them as well.
So we will have a jam packed hour or so to show you tonight of the governor's reaction and his address to this joint session.
So Amy and Sherman, the governor gave a preview posted this on social media longer than perhaps people expected.
Terminal.
Start with you all.
What did you glean from that preview about what the governor may say more of tonight?
>> I think first of all of this is going to be a about kind of what you know.
Clearly it's that come with them.
It's just just outright of just where we are.
And I think you're in here, one of hopeful when one of you know that we have been through trying times and he's going to, you know, it will certainly recap those as he does in most of his speeches and he's out things that he's talking about.
You know, the floods COVID tornadoes.
The recent extreme winter weather that we just went through, that we as Kentuckians are pull, we pull ourselves Pull ourselves up by our bootstraps and really come together to help each other to help our neighbors.
And that's really what you're going to hear through this be.
Obviously some policy will talk about some of the issues that he wants to to kind of push.
It's an election year, right?
And that is going to be the theme throughout the rest of this, not just tonight, but the rest of this year.
Yeah, if you haven't, you know, if you're tuning in and you haven't seen any any ads, you know, they're they're So you know that that is kind of where we are with it.
>> Expect to hear some touting of the economic winds.
Amy, I mean, it's been a pretty banner year these last couple of years and even though there are concerns nationally about a recession.
Kentucky's state revenue picture is pretty bright.
>> You know, it is.
And I think that we're we're going to hear a campaign speech tonight.
There's no doubt about it.
We have the filing deadline looming for us on Friday.
There's an incredible slate of that are ready to step up to the challenge.
But tonight, you know, I think we're also going hear a little bit about his legislative agenda.
But to your point on the economic development announcement, yes, as the governor, he's the one who gets to cut the ribbon and stand at the podium.
But I think we have to acknowledge that we did not get here overnight that they environment to create these economic winds.
Didn't happen in 2 years.
It is because of these policies, the businessman and policies, the smart budgeting, the tax reform package is that the Republican supermajorities have passed since back to 2019 that have led us here today.
>> And just today, the President, President Biden was in northern Kentucky, Brent Spence Bridge and the and the governor and the minority leader, Senator Mitch McConnell were there.
So I wonder if he'll mention about bipartisanship, right?
Because there is a super duper, more super duper majority than there was when he gave the speech this time last year.
Well, that is certainly a dynamic that I'm going to be watching for how he tries to appeal to the new members there.
31 new members in the General Assembly this year.
That's a lot.
The super majorities on the Republican side have only increased 80 members to 20 Democrats in the House.
31 Republicans in the Senate to 7 in the Senate.
So that is something that how is he going to reach across the aisle?
Who is he going to work with?
>> Who are his allies that he's looking to end those super majorities to really be successful with what his legislative agenda will be and how he'll get that done.
Yeah.
>> So we are waiting for the governor to make his entrance into the chamber and he'll be escorted by a committee that is assigned to wait upon the governor.
You'll see that will bring that action to you as a sidebar to our discussion.
And then we will get to the governor's address.
And of course, as I mentioned earlier, will have reaction from our observers and also from legislative leaders on both sides of the isle, which is interesting because we will have for the first time in history to leaders who are African-American, who will be talking with our Casey Parker Bell House minority Leader Derrick Graham and Sen Minority General Mail.
>> It's historic.
It's And it's and it's I saw both of them today actually at the Brent Spence Bridge announcement.
And as you talked about that in these you know, both of well, Gerald Neal stepping into this role since morning and already has going on for for And he is, you know, it's going to be exciting to see his relationship and way he handles things.
He's handled things a lot differently.
I think certainly than the morning that Congressman Garvey and, you yeah, it is historic just to just to see both of those men and that right.
>> And like you said, the fact that we've got this governor's race that looms over everything and we expect there to be a lot of her waiting for economic winds and some other things.
And to talk about, I mean, this has been a crisis, governor, and it has right.
I think that, you know, I'll be what I'm looking for tonight is is if he is willing to share some of that credit like was done today with the Brent Spence Bridge right?
>> Is he willing to share some of that credit?
And thank and partner with the General Assembly for the quick action that they took on the names that were addressed for Western Kentucky for the tornadoes for the Eastern Kentucky floods.
You can hand out money if the General Assembly does not act quickly to appropriated.
And so I hope that we will hear some type thank you and willingness to work together and acknowledgement really that you can't do it alone.
You can't govern alone.
You have to have some type of working relationship with with the General Assembly as the governor.
And I'm not sure it's but I'm sure he'll be focused on that point.
I want to take up with Sharman because we know this is a short session as we call it.
It's 30 days we've heard from leadership that it's going to be more of a standard 30 day believe it when I see it right, that things are going to be more less about a big, massive pieces of legislation, but tweaking certain pieces of legislation.
House Bill, one we know is coming up on committee tomorrow in the House and are and this is the income tax trigger.
So we know those kinds of things are on the table.
But I'm curious because it's not a budget year.
>> I mean, what will be the policy agenda, possibilities that the governor might bring forth tonight?
Will he do that?
>> Yeah, it's not a budget year, but it is an opportunity there there.
Every 30 may sessions you can open up the budget.
We have a surplus that is one of the highest we've ever had doesn't mean you have to spend it, but it is there to He talked about these things yesterday and has we'll preview of what we want you to see a raise for teachers.
And I wrote a couple of again, but a raise for teachers want to be universal.
Obviously, they're called not offer that even calling for that for a long time.
His father called for that from the time that some of the biggest losses also these.
We've also >> I jump in Teacher raises.
I think you're going to hear some counter from the Republican side knowing what they did pass a budget where they really enjoy some great lines down at the local level of those decisions are best made a lot of our school systems in Ballard in Christian County are simply not the same thing.
And allowing there's the local has and decision makers to make those decisions that really empower them to do so.
What's best for their school, the strict as what we're going to continue to hear and not just a cookie and tonight.
Well, right now they are administering the prayer.
We did not meet and talk over.
That's a lot of respect for the solemn moment service today.
We will go now to the House floor progress as it but the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering jumped on this goodness.
Faith make this difference against such.
There is no.
>> right now a stretch my hand.
And he and I pray to allow the leaders gather here tonight.
>> To focus on over this process to forget those seeds which are behind and pressed toward the mark for the pride of the high pollen of Christ.
Jesus have enough, although that will spread allow these leaders to press forward.
As you have commanded.
So this state can move forward to more fully meet the needs of its people.
As we listen to the governor's message tonight, Lord, help us remember that.
You say truly, I tell you whatever you did for one of the least amount of the one brothers assist as you have done it.
Also to me, oh, my God, I pray that one day you will give this government legislature.
The ultimate Weldon misses the to include it.
In your word when you say well done good and faithful servant in God we trust united, we stand divided.
We fall, though, forgive a sauce and in the name of Jesus Christ operate a man.
>> I pledge allegiance to the flag.
Air and God, indivisible.
>> Chair would recognize the gentleman from the Kraken.
>> Mister President, I move you.
Serve that the roll call be dispensed with.
>> Is there a second pitch?
Motion made and seconded.
The roll call will be dispensed with.
The chair recognizes the Chief Gore keeper of the House.
Mister President.
>> The governor of the Commonwealth of Kentucky K. >> Speaker Osborne.
Members of the General Assembly.
Lieutenant Governor Coleman.
And our constitutional officers.
The justices of the Kentucky Supreme Court.
General Lamberton.
Former Governor Steve Beshear and former first Lady Jane this year.
Hi, mom and dad at.
First Lady Britainy Beshear.
Lyla and all the Kentucky INS watching from home.
Good evening.
I'm proud to report that despite everything we've been through, including a pandemic tornadoes, flooding.
Ice storms, a polar plunge temporary but still tough inflation and even a war in Europe.
The state of the Commonwealth is still strong.
The state of the Commonwealth.
Is still strong.
And our future.
It's bright.
>> We enter 2023 with hope and optimism after setting record highs and economic development and record lows in unemployment.
That means the 2023 provides us a special opportunity for this state and for this legislative session to change everything for the better.
To be the generation.
That puts aside partisanship and assures Kentucky into a new era prosperity.
I want to talk first about how we are Kentucky.
Tough and how we have navigated historic challenges.
I want to focus on the extraordinary potential we have in this decisive moment to lift up all our people and all our families.
Since day one.
My administration is focused on the worries that Kentucky's feel every day.
Have a good paying job.
Can I take my kids or my parents to a doctor when they're sick?
My family and my community safe.
Are my kids getting the very best education?
These are the worries of a parent.
I'm now I am one.
But I have faith in God.
And I fe in us.
I have faith that we the people of Kentucky can will and are addressing each of these worries and we're doing it together.
In the face of some of the greatest challenges imaginable.
Time and time again, Kentucky shown up for one another.
Scripture tells us that we are to love our neighbors as ourselves.
And that's exactly what folks across the commonwealth have been doing.
You see last year I delivered this address just weeks after the deadliest tornado outbreak in our history in our Western region.
We lost 81.
Kentuckians.
Historic flooding, devastated communities in our eastern region taking 44 more lives.
And just around 10 days ago, a polar plunge at the entire state, killing 4 people.
And that's all on top.
Nearly 17,700 Kentuckians.
We've lost in the pandemic.
As a community.
We've experienced more pain and more grief that many can comprehend.
But God is good.
Even through the most difficult tragedies.
And we can always see his work in the response.
What fills me with hope and pride.
His health team, Kentucky, has responded to all of these challenges.
We got through them.
We got through them together.
We continue to be thankful for the Kentucky State Police Fish and Wildlife officers and the Kentucky National Guard, the best National Guard in this entire country.
Joining us tonight, a rescue helicopter pilots Sergeant Sack last and Captain Brown Austin from Ksp and Sergeant First Class Jeremy Low and Tech sergeant Cole Kaiser from the Kentucky National Guard.
We also have Lieutenant Robbie Spears up Michael and Conservation Officer Bobby Owens of Hyman from Fish and Wildlife who led boat rescues throughout the region.
Let's give them a big round of applause.
I am convinced the because of the work of these amazing people and all of their colleagues that the emergency rescue efforts during the flooding.
One of the best the nation has ever seen with more than 1300 Kentuckians rescued.
That's 1300 Kentucky Lives.
Safed.
So to each of you and your colleagues, the Commonwealth loves you.
And once again, thank you.
Along with those great individuals, first responders throughout the state and across the country came to help.
And some of those first responders are joining us this evening.
Battalion Chief Adams or L and Captain Ryan Hoxton.
We are here with us from the Lexington Fire Department.
They were originally this past a hazard.
When I got to Breathitt County, they KET that's where they were needed.
Most.
Adam and Ryan in the entire Lexington Fire Department, Swift Water rescue crew put their lives on the line to rescue 130 Kentucky INS and they assisted in missions that say more than 2 1000 lives.
So on behalf of all the first responders that came to our aid during that flooding.
We thank you.
In response to the flooding we immediately secured a federal disaster declaration to speed resources to the region.
We set up the team eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund which is now raised over 13 million dollars.
I called a special session and together we opened up over 200 million dollars of state funds immediately to help the region.
So Mister President, Mister Speaker.
Bill sponsor John Blanton, I want to thank you for your leadership and I want to thank this entire General Assembly for putting the people of Kentucky first.
And it's something that I think was.
This wasn't a bipartisan act.
It was a non partisan act.
During and after the floods, we opened up our state parks to people who had lost their homes just like we did in the West with help from Louisiana.
We're providing intermediate housing and travel trailers for nearly 700 Kentuckians until they can secure reliable, permanent housing.
We're joined by Trinity Shepherd, who runs Jenny Wiley State Resort Park along with some of his co-workers, Trinity and his team, some of whom are heavily impacted themselves.
They put their own needs aside and they helped our families who have lost everything.
So Trinity, we want to thank you.
And every parks employee for caring for our fellow Kentuckians time and time again.
And as we headed into the holiday season, the first lady once again launched a toy drive the Eastern Kentucky toy Drive to give the children who have lost so much in the floods.
A reason to smile at Christmas.
And once again, the toys poured in and those kids left with boxes upon boxes of gifts for Christmas.
Your mom's pretty special lady.
Britney, I love you.
Thank you for everything you do for the children of Kentucky.
The task that remains it's a long-term rebuilding.
Unquestionably, it will be one of the most difficult rebuilds our nation has ever seen.
Our mission.
It's a move.
Our families out of the floodplain and out of harm's way.
But doing so gives us a chance to re.
Imagine our communities to go beyond just rebuilding and to set the stage for future growth.
We have the chance to build new homes, community center, senior apartments, maybe even new schools, along with strong modern, resilient infrastructure that will help the entire region.
And here's the best part.
There isn't a planned both to rebuild and to attract new jobs.
Thanks to the generosity of Sean and Tammy Adams were doing just that.
Right before Christmas.
We were able to announce the first high ground community will be created in Knott County.
We'll use donated funds as well as state and federal money to build those new homes, schools and community center along with strong, resilient infrastructure.
This will be just the first of many communities like this that the state will build along with local governments and private sector partners in the areas most affected by the flooding.
Sean and Tammy are here with us tonight.
We all chose to make a difference for your community by helping us create a safer neighborhood for those who need one.
He said you hoped it will be named Olive branch to symbolize peace.
Thank you both for showing us what it truly means to live out our Kentucky values.
We want the people of eastern Kentucky to know that we love you.
We care about you and we're going to be there for you.
Every step of the way.
As long as it takes.
And for those in the West affected by the tornadoes, we know there's still much work left to be done.
We remain committed and we look forward to celebrating each milestone with you.
Last year.
I got to introduce you to care, McKnight and her family.
Just months after losing her brother Logan in a car accident.
Kerr's home was taken by the tornadoes.
I met her at the Christmas celebration of Penny Rob Park where Lai Lun.
I loaded Kara up with voice.
Since then.
Every time I've been in western Kentucky, I see Kara and her family.
I've gotten to know them and I've closely followed their recovery.
I'm proud to report the mic nights are finally in their new home.
And Kerry even got to design her own room.
Every family impacted by the tornadoes or the flooding deserves that moment when they walk into safe, whoa.
Jason, Ashley and jet are watching in their new living room tonight.
I want to thank them for their strength and for showing us both healing and better days possible.
I'm extraordinarily proud of how our people have responded to crisis after crisis.
I think we're ready to turn the page.
To no longer focus on the difficulties of yesterday, but to embrace the promise of tomorrow.
And the book of Psalms, We're told, weeping may linger for the night, but joy comes in the morning.
The joy of that morning.
The promise a better Kentucky means that our children and grandchildren never have to leave this state to pursue their dreams because no matter how big they dream, they can chase every dream right here.
A tomorrow where people don't move from our state.
But to it where people and businesses choose Kentucky.
The promise of a better future has never been brighter as our commonwealth does emerge from the pandemic as a national economic leader.
Every day we're winning with company after company picking us picking Kentucky.
In 2021, we have the best economic development year on record with the largest total investment in the most new jobs ever announced.
With the books closed on 2022.
I can announce week now secured the best two-year period for economic growth in state history.
During my administration.
We have now announced more than 800 private sector, new location or expansion project totaling 24 billion dollars in new investments.
And the best part, the creation of 42,600 new Kentucky Jobs.
I'm proud to say these aren't just any jobs.
They are really good jobs in 2022, our average incentivize wage was $26.78 before benefits.
That's an 11 and a half percent increase over 2021.
That means the past 2 years have been our second and 3rd best years ever for new wages.
And what I love most about the success is that they are spread all over the state.
Just look at flash steelworks investing 12.1 million dollars in creating 250 new jobs in Bell County.
Jackson Purchase.
Distillery investing more than 17 million dollars created.
24 new jobs in Fulton County at was machine a supply company creating 78 new jobs in Breckenridge County Glass with its 239 million dollar investment, creating 140 new jobs in Warren County.
Ford Motor Company investing another 700 million dollars, creating 500 new jobs in Jefferson County, Fidelity Investments.
Creating nearly 875 new jobs and white horse freight creating another 450 new jobs in Kenton County Catalent Pharma Solutions investing more than 171 million dollars.
Create 262 new jobs in Clark County Trader Joe's East Incorporated, investing 260 million dollars in creating 876 jobs in Simpson County companies, manufacturing investing.
25.6 million dollars create 350 new jobs in Owen County, Mega Corps logistics, creating 250 new jobs in Campbell County.
Some of polymers incorporated investing.
37.5 million dollars.
Create 218 new jobs in Anderson County legacy Medals Creighton 100 new jobs in Christian County.
Double the group investing.
41.5 million dollars create 200 new jobs in Muhlenberg County.
Columbia Brands.
USA.
Creating 175 new jobs in Henderson County.
The Kentucky whiskey company investing more than 21 million dollars in creating 30 new jobs in Ohio County.
How this technologies incorporated creating 150 new jobs in Callaway County, Smithson manufacturing company investing 12.5 million dollars creating 80 new jobs in Graves.
County, Emerald energy in the Gulf and county.
So 1.4 million dollar investment with 25 new jobs.
Revolutionary race investing.
55 million dollars to create nearly 200 new jobs in Boyd County.
How about that?
It's because of this commitment to make sure that prosperity comes to every part of our state and that no one is left out.
I was proud to stand for election as a co-chair of the Appalachian Regional Commission.
And I'm proud to report that today I was elected unanimously.
My promise as we will continue to create great jobs all through Appalachia and beyond.
A big part of our economic story, a big part of our future economy.
It's tied to our electric vehicle revolution.
Through bold leadership.
We're supercharging the automotive industry for the future.
We announced the biggest economic development project for 2022. and the second largest project in state history.
That's in visions.
2 billion dollars.
2000 job battery facility.
We already broke ground on this amazing project in Bowling Green's Trance Park.
And last month we officially broke ground on the game, changing blue Oval SK Battery park in Hardin County for his partner SK on are investing nearly 6 billion dollars creating 5,000 new jobs on the Glendale Mega site, making it the biggest economic development project in state history.
Joining us tonight, we have just a single and Vision's director of operations in Bowling Green as well as Jim Crane, the chief financial officer of Blue Oval SK because of these great projects.
Kentucky has submitted its status as the electric vehicle battery production capital.
The United States of America.
Thank you both.
And thanks to those gentleman.
We are already seeing other large investments to build out our supply chain for EV and to do it in Kentucky in September, we announced ascend elements, 1 billion dollar investment and a high tech battery, recycling and production facility which bring a 400 new jobs to Hopkinsville.
This was the second largest announcement of 2022. and a stance is the single largest investment western Kentucky has ever seen.
Because of this project.
We won't have to rely on China for one single ounce of lithium.
Not one.
We're protecting our national security and we're getting it done right here in Kentucky.
This project.
It's also personal to mate.
That amazing plate.
It's going to be built just about 26 miles from Dawson Springs.
A town that was near Lake wiped off the mat by tornadoes.
It's a community.
I deeply love.
This plant will ensure that that town it's families not only survive.
So Kara.
I know you're watching at home.
Study hard because some of the most advanced technological jobs are setting up just down the road from your new home.
It's also appropriate to toast to toast the success of our signature bourbon and spirits industry C in 2022.
Kentucky's bourbon spirits industry had its biggest ever year for growth.
Investing 2.1 billion dollars creating 700 new jobs.
We welcome new bourbon investments in new jobs in Laurel Nelson, Marion Washington bracket and Bullet counties.
Just a name a few.
2022, we'll also be remembered as year of the year.
We took major steps in health care.
Health care is a basic human right.
It's also basic building block of Kentucky's economy.
The health care industry is one of our leading employers.
He created 1550 new jobs in 2022. alone.
During the height of the pandemic, our hospitals and our health care heroes proved just how important they are in together.
We say 10's of thousands of lives.
In recognition.
We pass legislation that's now provided more than 2 billion additional dollars to Kentucky's hospitals.
This help facilities across the state KET their doors open and help lay the groundwork some amazing new opportunities.
These opportunities, including breaking Ground Norton.
Healthcare is new hospital in West Louisville.
The first hospital in the West end in 150 years.
I'm proud that with us tonight is doctor McCants of Norton.
Healthcare also led vaccination efforts in the West and during the pandemic to ensure every family had access.
Doctor McCants, thank you and thank your entire team at Norton, Healthcare.
Other projects include the new U of L South Hospital in Bullet County.
The new Appalachian Valley Autism Center in Preston, Start and the institution of the Pace program, which is going to KET so many of our seniors that need extra help in their own home, improving their health, improving the quality of life.
Alongside all this new job growth in 2022, we also set records for the lowest employment in state history.
3 separate times.
We also set a record for the longest stretch of unemployment below 3.9%.
Our fiscal house.
He's also stronger than ever.
My administration is expected to post post the 4 largest budget surpluses in the Commonwealth history.
We have the largest rainy day fund ever.
We reported the highest annual revenue growth in 30 one years.
Put simply.
We're winning and we're bringing prosperity to every corner of the commonwealth with the goal to leave.
No one behind.
That's why we're working hard.
We're working hard to ensure that Kentucky into the fallen out of the workforce.
Secure, good paying jobs, not by kicking folks who are down but lifting them up.
The parable of the Good Samaritan starts of the person suffering on the side of the road on the ground.
And in that parable, the person was supposed to emulate doesn't kick him or threaten them, cut his benefits.
He lifts them up.
So let's live are fake.
And our values and let's apply the lessons.
The Bible teaches forgiveness of healing and it could well.
We are called to forget to provide second chances.
So in November I join the justice Cabinet in the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce to announce new programs aim to transition people from incarceration to employment.
Folks.
This is a win when.
We fill jobs with willing employers and we make our community safer Kentuckyian with the job, it's far less likely to re offend.
Second.
Chances are also needed for Kentuckians fighting addiction.
From launching a program to help employers guide their workers to addiction services when in need to this chambers, passage of the recovery ready communities we're creating pathways to help more people struggling with addiction.
Were also called to improve the health of all of our people.
A person has to be healthy enough to work.
That's why in October announced expanded Medicaid coverage includes dental hearing envision again, it's simple.
If we want you to go to work, you got to be able to see well enough to drive to work if we want you to be safe on the job site, you got to hear well enough to hear those instructions.
We're call to provide opportunity for our children never under them.
That's why together we've now invested about 245 million dollars over the last 2 budgets to renovate and rebuild career and technical centers and high schools all over the state.
This is how we build a workforce being the Samaritans that lift people up.
We're also working to make sure that our families feel safe in their homes, in their workplaces, in their schools and in their communities.
In order to create a better, safer, common?
Well, we must have enough police sheriff's deputies and state troopers.
That's why together we provided the Kentucky State Police with significant races.
This action has slowed if not stopped early retirements, an application numbers are increasing.
We're a straining stipends for all Kentucky law enforcement across the Commonwealth help the community center also providing necessary races and we created a military to law enforcement program help local law enforcement agencies hire more service members.
Let us not forget.
These are the heroes that put their lives on the line every day.
We lost far too many of them in 2022.
We grieve with the families of these brave heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice this last year.
Let us always remember their sacrifices continue to support these families.
To our law enforcement community.
We love you.
We support you and we need you.
Keeping our families safe.
Also requires us to face new realities that far too many violent crimes are being committed juveniles.
We're expanding early intervention services with the goal, providing more educational opportunities, mental health counseling addiction treatment and wrap around services before a juvenile commits a serious crime.
The reality is we're currently housing the most violent population of juveniles in recent memory.
In our juvenile justice facilities, our juvenile justice system was put into place 20 years ago.
It was not designed to handle this type of offender.
This is put our workers as well as young people housed in these facilities in danger.
Because of this.
We're currently implementing significant reforms.
We're putting in higher security facilities for those charged with the most serious crimes.
This will allow us to both KET our workers and the other you safe and allow lower-level offenders to access more services without disruption.
We opened our first female only juvenile detention center to better protect female youth.
And 3rd, we're going to be asking you the General Assembly for help help in the form of higher salaries.
Upgrade star facilities and some necessary changes to state law.
Another part keeping our community safe is ensuring the roads and bridges are families travel across are safe and then our water is clean and drinkable.
In many ways we are in our Eisenhower moment providing more funding for infrastructure than ever before.
We have some major results on major projects to be excited about.
Once that have been talked about for decades.
Like the I-69 corridor, the Kentucky Highway 30 from Boonville.
The London, the many to Harrell connector in Floyd County and the Mountain Parkway expansion.
And earlier today, Senator McConnell and I join the president to celebrate the more than 1.6 billion dollars in federal funding to build the Brent Spence Companion Bridge.
This is what happens when people work together.
President Biden, Senators, McConnell, Portman and Brown, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and myself along with local officials business and this General Assembly, which budgeted dollars to greatly helped our application leaders have talked about even promises project for decades.
But now together we're getting the job done.
We're going to get it done without tolls.
We've also worked to make the largest public sector investment expanding high-speed Internet, and there are more projects to come.
We delivered on projects to bring clean drinking water to nearly 85,000 homes with every single county receiving funding.
Through hard work.
Our Commonwealth has become a leader and the rest of the country has noticed, in fact, Kentucky led the entire country and new job creation in August.
And we tied for first in September.
But it's not enough just to get to the top.
We've got to stay on top.
That takes work.
And that takes investment.
So today my state Representative Derek Grant file bills that would serve as a roadmap to where we need to go and a blueprint on how we can continue to Bill.
The first bill contains our education first plant, which begins with a 5% pay raise for every public school educator.
Passage of this bill is both vital and it's necessary to address Kentucky shortage.
Nearly 11,000 public school teachers as a parent of 2 public school students.
I know the impact.
I'm not having an English a mask for science teacher.
I set aside my kids during Distance-learning just like so many viewed it.
A simple fact is you can address learning loss without enough educators put another way.
You can't catch a kid up on mask without a math teacher.
Addressing our teacher shortage absolutely requires a pay raise just over the last year, Kentucky dropped from 40 seconds to 44th in teacher pay.
We must act failure to do so harms our children and undermines public education.
It's also time now it's long past time for Universal Pre K. Universal PRE K helps young parents rejoin the workforce while ensuring every single Kentucky child his kindergarten ready our Education first plan also provides funding for educational resources, mental health support for our students and a loan forgiveness program for our teachers together.
Let's make Kentucky a shining example of how to treat both our educators and our students.
Treating people right also dictates that this session and that this General Assembly finally legalize medical cannabis.
I see far too many Kentuckians are suffering from life-threatening.
A chronic conditions like our veterans with PTSD.
What Kentuckians with cancer.
That's why issue my executive order.
It allows people to get help they need without fearing a misdemeanor.
I recently heard the story Chasse Chasity Harney.
Chasity is a mother and wife from Kenton County who in 2019 was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer at the age 40.
In addition to the surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation treatments, Chasity was also prescribed.
In her words, every form of pain pill.
There was.
But like a lot of people just the found, the medications from her little relief.
Just the found a real relief from medicinal cannabis oil.
Justin could not be here with us tonight, but I want to thank her for her bravery and sharing her story with the Commonwealth.
It's going help.
A lot of people.
Let's pass medical cannabis for Chasity and every person in need.
We'll also be filing legislation to finally legalize sports betting.
Representative Rahm also filed legislation to provide additional raises for state workers and to provide a one and-a-half percent pension increase for retirees in the state employees, retirement system.
It has been 10 long years since the last increase and inflation has hit our retirees pretty heart.
With our record surplus.
We should also invest more in our pension systems, propose shoring up the state employees retirement system with 100 million dollar investment and another 100 million dollars to pay down the unfunded liability of the teachers retirement system.
Asked Kentucky INS, we share more the divides us.
We share the values of faith, a family and of community.
And if we double down right now, if we lead with our values and we push politics aside, there is nothing that we cannot achieve.
Our future is brighter.
That is ever then.
If we stop trying to move to the right, one of the left and instead just choose to move forward.
We will turn these 2 amazing years of historic progress in the decades of lasting prosperity.
This General Assembly has the opportunity to make great progress on each of the U.S. issues we discussed tonight.
Yeah, the funding to do it.
If we can just find our way to do what is right for the people of Kentucky, then we will be the generation, the changes everything for the better.
The generation ushers in a new era of prosperity.
And we will be the generation.
But it sure ensures every child born in Kentucky can stay in their community if they choose because every opportunities available to them right here at home.
As the dad of a 12 and a 13 year-old who are here with me tonight.
You know, I love more than life itself.
Nothing.
It's more important to me.
God bless the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
We love you.
Good night.
>> And you just heard Governor Andy Beshear deliver his 4th state of the Commonwealth address, touting a lot of the successes the last couple of years when it comes to economic development saying it's the best in the state's history.
These last 2 years talking about funding for Universal Pre K Medical cannabis legalization and for structure.
He did talk a lot about some bipartisanship.
He mentioned, of course, the trip today to northern Kentucky where President Biden was there to talk about the Brent Spence Companion Bridge.
Senator McConnell was there.
She also gave a shout out to the speaker and the Senate president over the eastern Kentucky flood relief package that was passed during the special session.
So any Wickliffe I have to ask you, what's there to disagree with him?
The speech or?
>> Well, I will point right to it.
And I think that's when he really take credit for these largest rainy day fund and these large surpluses when you look back at his record on the reasons that we have these surpluses, it's because of the budgeting that took place over the last couple of years.
>> Plus, the tax reforms.
Take a look at what he vetoed and that the General Assembly to override his vetoes.
So I think it's it's a little questioning to me, read it for these rainy day funds that are large, the large surpluses.
But then when you look back at the action, Mister Specter told you so you now share, let us here.
He actually apparently disagreed with those actions.
What I think what I'm going to be looking forward to going forward is House Bill one in this reduction of the income personal income tax that would take place this week in the House.
What will the governor do with the euro?
Well, he signed that.
I will.
He veto it.
So that's a good question for you to answer Sherman Brown that and do you think it's disingenuous for the governor to take so much credit for the budget surplus is considering?
>> That he did veto some of the legislation that could have contributed to the robust economy that the states now enjoy.
I want to go back and look at this.
I think I mean, not not at the policy, but as far as like what he's saying, we obviously do have the record surpluses home for using those funds is calling.
He's calling for things that we can do and what to do with those.
>> As far as taking credit for up to go back and watch that to see if he was taking all the credit saying I did this.
I didn't I didn't catch that.
I thought it was more of a thank you to everyone.
I hurt.
And, you know, as far as thinking, the not not just the legislators legislature excuse me overall, but also thinking what going through with the responders and folks that have have really just kind of come together with it all over the over the last 3 years.
As far as the bill itself, I don't know.
Have not.
I have not had a conversation with anybody about what he's going to be there.
>> House Bill, one we talked about this before.
The speech is going to be in the House Appropriations and Revenue Committee.
And this is once again the follow up on House Bill 8.
That was the original personal income tax reduction plan that eventually graduate to phase it out to 0.
And so we've already had the half percent reduction that went into effect January.
First.
Now they'll act for second trigger that we'll see in the next a calendar year.
So it's interesting to see what he may or may not do with because there are a lot of people who on the progressive side who will say that that package actually disenfranchises and hurts the poor.
The sales tax was brought into more services that really affect those who have used cars for longer, et cetera.
So he could have some philosophical objections that make sense to the voters that are most likely going to support him.
He very well could.
I think what we've seen in the electorate of Kentucky electing super majorities and of Republicans to the General Assembly.
>> Affirms what they have done over the past couple years, too.
Put more of people's hard earned money back in their own pockets to allow them to figure out how they want to spend it.
I think that's a popular topic.
So I'll be very interested to see what governor hands up doing.
>> Well, a couple of popular topics that he talked about.
Medical cannabis, of course, that he had the executive order.
We've we're really talking about this ad nauseum.
Every Kentucky denied every time we get a chance because it's a topic that we hear the most about.
But Universal Pre K I mean, he's still on that issue.
And we just I don't know.
I mean, do you see the Republican super duper majority going for that?
>> I have not heard anyone discussing that topic for this special for this short session.
So that's so why even bring it up and already suffer a loss.
>> Just by the mere suggestion, Sherman Brown.
>> As a loss because if you're really only talking about you're talking to folks that hear it and the people that you want to hear it, that's maybe that's that maybe that's the argument and making the case using that using the power of that, he has, which I think he's done a great job of using using media and using social media and talking over the last 3 years using COVID as a as an example.
There, but really talking and communicating with folks, you know where he's at.
And it shows I mean, to back to the point of the popularity, 60% approval rating go through a list that as far as looking forward for the for the election side of things, most popular Democratic governor in the country, I mean, he's still pretty good on top of watching most delicate, the Democrat for the of our Democratic governor.
>> Well, that popularity, yes.
And but but let's look at what happened in 2022, every Democrat, incumbent one.
So he's the most popular.
I feel pretty good about that.
You know, looking at those.
But also on the fundraising side in the numbers are speaking for themselves.
Where is that?
He's been running the longest, you know, but clearly the numbers are they're pretty good there where he's contributions from wind.
And that was the story today, right?
That a combined of all the Republican in the game so far.
>> He's really out raising them.
Well, he has an end to that Sherman's point.
He's been raising money for a very long time.
But I think you have to give credit to some of the Republicans in the race here reporting very big numbers.
When you have that many Republicans in the race and you still got candidates like Kelly Craft and Daniel Cameron, Ron Corals reporting these types of numbers.
>> I think that shows that there is a willingness and the desire to have someone as an alternative to consider going forward >> it will be interesting to see his strategy and the Democrats in general because they are slimmer than they were this time last year and the governor isn't going to be in a competitive race and how much they get really go out on the lam on pushing some of these pieces of legislation, whether it's Universal Pre K or how much more where they try to rally behind medical cannabis and mean infrastructure.
Who's going to argue with me?
There are several things he talked about that are nonpartisan, right, Amy?
I mean, who's going to, you know, beef about infrastructure and those types of things.
I'm getting people who've been in jail into jobs.
I mean, all of these things, the opioid crisis and all the things he talked about, some of those things are just not partisan issues.
They are.
And I think a big focus of what we're going to see a lot of conversation going on right now is all of these job announcements are great.
>> We must have the workforce and a trained workforce to make sure that these jobs are filled.
And so I think you're going to see some focus from the legislature continue to talk about that.
And I think the governor's office and Chamber of Commerce as well on workforce development that and not just the teacher shortage, but another critical industries that that's correct.
Yes, you want to comment further on.
That was a living.
I mean, just as any just I think >> Those are those are topics were thinking out and the first lady has been working with folks on second.
Part of that is that you do get the bipartisan piece of that.
I mean, he's reaching out and talking to working is asked to be able to do those things you know, going through.
And, you know, sports betting, I mean, looking at other options, medical marijuana.
Those are policies that we've we've had conversations about.
And use the Brent Spence Bridge is the example that's been discussed.
My first race ever worked on 2002 and can Lucas is raising the northern Kentucky ahead a saw and you came today because she was former congressman.
She was the one who first told me this is something that we need to be doing in the next 5 years.
That was 2002, right, as you know.
And it takes a little time yet, but it's but it's bipartisan and added to it.
>> Well, nothing too.
When you look back at this page again, it's a campaign speech, each some very, very popular type topics to kind of put out there to Sherman's point whether or not they get across the aisle he feels like he spoke to might be his base or his voter population.
To hope that that they will turn out and support him going forward.
Whether or not they actually get across the finish line.
I think us yet to be spent 28 more days to find.
That's right.
Well, we have now Casey Parker Bell who was on the House floor with the 2 new leaders in the Democratic caucus for the Senate.
>> And the House, the minority leaders there, Casey Parker Bell take away that.
>> Thanks for not.
As just said, I'm here with the 2 new minority leaders, Senator Gerald Neal and Representative Gary Graham.
Gentlemen, thank you for joining us.
Said all start with you.
What vision you believe Governor Beshear laid out for the state in tonight's addressed?
I think what he told us is that we are on firm ground.
>> We are moving forward and we need to build in those things that will sustain us going forward and meeting the future.
It was a very optimistic delivery yet.
Representative Rahm attorney, you because your name was mentioned during the speech as you filed some bills, how do you believe those bills can fulfill the vision?
But this year laid out?
Well, I you know, as where I represent state employees and retirees.
>> And that's a key point for us here in this community because of the number of people lift.
But I want to say about the governor.
I'm going to start calling him the creator of jobs job, create because if you look at what he has told us and to what that it shows us over 43,000.
Almost 43,000 new jobs in the Commonwealth of Kentucky under his sewage is being governor.
I think that is probably the best thing and there's a lot of things that he's talked about.
But I think that is the key point.
Is that the job, the number of jobs he's brought in in 3 years because this is the start of his 4th year.
So I think that is that is the most significant aspect of what he talked about.
In addition to those things that deal with education because education is the key that opens the door to opportunity.
And that's what he is saying to us.
Let's invest in education because the more we invest in education, the better off we will be in terms of bringing economic development to the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Obviously representative grand there is an obstacle to passing these bills and feeling that vision.
You all are in the minority in both chambers.
So what do you believe are the chances that you can get some of these things pass?
Well, that's what we can look.
>> In terms of working in a way which bipartisan a way in which we can get these things out.
You know, today I tend the bridge the announcement of the Brent Spence is a hard thing to Spence Bridge.
And that's the thing that I could have got out of that is that it came about because a bipartisan it relationship and working together to get things done for not only the people of Ohio and Kentucky, but for all of this part of the country from Florida to Canada because that is a bit freeway, a business in terms of bringing economic development and bringing all kinds of tools through that area from Florida to ban it.
And that's an amazing thing that we're being able to get this money.
That we are going to be able to increase the development, not only the economic development here in Kentuckyian Ohio, but all across this part of the of the United States.
So it it shows us that if we work together, we can build up on a lot of things that can help the Commonwealth of Kentucky and then not only here in Kentucky but can have additional input for our surrounding states is what?
Later.
Neal, you mentioned that this speech was optimistic, but what are some of the things that you hope to accomplish in this legislative session that the governor mentioned?
>> I think is all gets back to jobs.
Some of the things that enable families to support >> their families and the and the individuals that they relate to in their communities and strengthening the economic viability of the community.
But I think it's all been said here.
I think the governor laid it out carefully and clearly that there is investment that investment has produced results are positive.
Well, all of us in Kentuckyian that is not just located in one area is located across Kentucky and that we can generate that.
He's now, in fact, is happening right now.
Another thing he pointed out is that we're going to be more self-sufficient, were not to rely on resources outside of our our grasp in order to build the sales, we're going to become more self-sufficient in terms of what we do and that's going to sustain us going into the future as well.
I think another piece is really good.
And I leader Graham stated very clearly we have to work together.
This thing about bipartisanship might be fun politically, but it could be very detrimental an adverse if we don't understand and that partisanship and politics must be subordinate to the interests of the people of our community and of the commonwealth.
I think we have the opportunity here.
I think we will seize that opportunity.
I am for my colleagues to embrace that opportunity as well.
>> Later, Neal, the governor mentioned the budget surplus and this is an opportunity to spend some of that money.
He said job creation is one of the ways.
But there are are there other ways that you hope to spend some of that money?
>> Well, there's a lot of ways you can spend.
Money is not finite.
We all know that.
But we have enough money to move ourselves forward.
We have never been in this position that we're in right now.
We've never been in a position where we can invest strategically and still have resources to sustain and and to take care of emergencies and other things.
These tendencies that we face.
So we have the opportunity to do some very important things.
But I will tell you this, we stand steel and we don't take advantage of those opportunities and we run the risk of slipping back into mediocrity.
We would miss that opportunity.
And we with I mean, Lord, forgive us.
If we do that, we have a chance.
We have an opportunity.
If we work together, we can make things happen and not let them just happened to us that yet later, Graham, you mentioned you represent a lot of educators and education will be a big topic of discussion.
This General Assembly.
>> What are some of the things that you're hoping to see you can improve for education.
I think the governor talked about Pre K that's very important because the kids can start off if they get into Pre K they can do a whole lot better as they progress in school.
It shows that it works also in terms of keeping teachers in the classroom, we're losing a lot of teachers basically after the U.S. and pandemic trying to get teachers to stay and then also possibly looking at the retirement system.
Once we change the retirement system, it's had an impact on people stand in education.
He calls that was one of the things that was the advantage they may not have gotten, you know, great came, but they KET they had a defined benefit plan in the process every time.
And so I hope that we can address that and go back to it to attract more teachers into the system.
But one thing that is more important, I think, is to provide them with the increase in salary that the governor talked about.
That is the first thing that we can do it and we can also deal with the issue of mental health in the classroom as well as with those who are teaching in the classroom as well.
Obviously, there's no denying we're right in the middle of election season already, even though it's early in January.
>> How do you think that this speech can set the governor apart as we go into his reelection campaign?
>> Well, let me just say this about the speech.
It was a speech, but the government has provided in his way in which he has governed over these last 3 years.
He has shown the kind, you know, he sounded like a preacher here for when minute maybe want to say a man.
But the what he is a man who is a man of God and he believes in doing what is right, not only just for those at the top of for everyone, he believes everyone is equal.
Everyone has an opportunity.
That's the good thing about America.
Anything can be done if you work hard.
But also you you don't have to have.
What I would say obstacles in your way because other people thrown in there.
But you can take over what you want to do and the who you want to be.
That's what America's all about.
That's what the governor's saying.
It.
Let's give these kids the opportunity to soar as high as they what to do and whatever they want to do.
And I think the governor's speech tonight, he said he said it down for us to look at what we can do to our education system to make it a whole lot more.
The teachers would want to stay and students are learning getting what they need in order to be competitive in this new.
Way of our economy.
The 21st.
Later Graham later.
Neal, thank you both for taking time to be with us.
And we'll head back to you.
Renee, thank you.
Casey Parker Bell, we appreciate you so very much.
And now we're joined in the Capitol Annex studio here for K E T. >> With the Senate President Robert Stivers and House Speaker David Osborne.
Thank you, gentlemen, for making a quick job over here.
We appreciate you doing that so very much.
Good to see you.
So let me get your reaction first because you're closest to me, President Mister President.
That's how that works.
When you put your Haha.
>> What do you think?
Is there much to disagree with with what the governor said tonight?
>> Well, I want to say but the governor talked about wanting to do is lofty.
But to start one offing budgets right now when we know next year because of the way the markets have worked in.
This is just one example.
We're going to make serious contributions to stabilize all the pension systems.
And so this would be one of the week worst.
Philosophical, practical budgeting times now to strive to start doing a bunch one off things.
>> One off, meaning what?
What specific to pick out one group and say we're going to do this or we're going to spend money raises for teachers or you budget in the context of the whole.
And when you get yourself in trouble is doing these types of budgeting, maneuvers and gimmicks.
And and with all that the governor talks about cooperation.
We've never had any conversation with him.
He's never called us about anything related to a pay raise.
Mister Speaker, I would agree with the with on not recreating the budget for the first time in 3 years.
>> We actually got to do what we're supposed to do, which was passed a two-year budget.
And I think that budget was one of the most physically sale in responsible budgeting, Kentucky history.
It was one that was suppose one that made investments where it needed to make investments.
It was one that was was certainly and establish the largest budget reserve in history.
One that that allows us to to return over a billion dollars back to Kentucky taxpayers in the next 2 I think it's unlikely we're going to make wholesale in any budget document.
Certainly on things like pay raises it.
We we made those country.
Are a typical steps in the budget to provide for a state employee pay raises a pay per cent this 12% next year.
So I think that much of that is covered in the budget, but that doesn't does that are not include teachers.
>> The the increase in education funding which the Superintendents Association of School Boards Association overwhelmingly supported the ability to have flexibility in that as opposed to mandating a specific percentage of Even the the pressure foundation to one of the best education budgets in modern history.
So I think clearly the the money is there.
I think most schools, most school systems have recognize that and have rewarded teachers that gets to the pay raises.
>> Now, to a point you just made because a lot of state workers airs may parked up when you said 12% raises for this year.
>> And much of that is is contingent on the administration do what they're doing, what they're they're being tasked to do, which is to have personnel do a comprehensive employee's salary structure for the entirety of state government and that due in July, it was actually do.
>> Last year in 2021 they they failed to deliver.
It was due in July and it was Basically just said, give us all the money we're going to do with what we want to that inmate use any type of thoughtful process in in analyzing the the salary needs of state employees of aspects of of state employment.
That may be much more than 12%.
Some that may not need all 12%.
And so at this point, I don't know where they're incapable of delivering product or whether they're willing to deliver the product.
>> You want to comment on that further?
You know, it.
We come in here and you have to stay the Commonwealth speech.
You don't want to be somebody that >> that walks in and says and has to be a contrarian to to what was said.
But I was really quite shocked.
I'm not one of the longest serving people here.
And the governor talked about the state police races.
He had nothing to do with the state police races.
This was a legislative initiative that we moved the state police $15,000 across the board across the scale and to inappropriate budgeting methodology is not to us about one offs.
You fund the seek formula.
This was done some 30 years ago with David Carroll, who he nominated to be on various educational committees.
You put it into the system and then let the system mandate or dictate or work through the system to see which schools, which school systems which teachers which professions need the pay raises not a one off.
This is from a policy standpoint, really quiet, terrible.
When you start thinking about how you budget, it's it's really.
Not a good way to go and not something that I think any other state would try to budget this way.
>> So let's pivot and talk about workforce development.
He mentioned that and we know that that's a big issue that we think you all will approach during the remaining what 27 days of the session.
So what can we expect to see when it comes to workforce development?
Not just in terms of the teacher shortage, but other critical industries where, you know, you've got all of these these jobs coming where the workers going to come from to occupy them?
Well, I think we've made back to what.
Actually something he said.
>> But I would agree with.
We did actually work on creating more infrastructure for schools.
That is something we actually did have some discussions on.
We passed Senate Bill 10, which is working on the nursing shortage.
We did a lot of things like that, especially in the health care area.
And we're looking at all the other healthcare areas to where we may remove caps 4 PT OT other top of pair medical professions to where we don't have artificial cap.
Some artificial restraints against the system producing those individuals and working with our technical schools to open up those where they have these caps have been placed on Mister Speaker.
The great workforce participation rate in Kentucky is just falling woefully behind.
>> I think at last count 49th in the country about 56% of able-bodied Kentucky actively engaged in the end.
The work that's unacceptable it and we continue to do things to track too, to a system that whether it be public assistance reform, whether it be additional monies are additional uses for KET money we we put over 2 million dollars and vocational schools and tech programs to try to engage that workforce.
Certainly there are.
There are worker shortages in in particular fields that we've tried to to work James chair of education manager of our Education Committee is working on some things to try to help with the teachers or shortage to address some of the I guess the easier things to in.
Clearly teacher shortages is something that is nationwide.
But but some of the things we can do specifically here in Kentucky to track too incentive as a young people to go into the profession to make it easier to your loan forgiveness, things like that.
>> Last item that will talk about tonight and hopefully we'll have a little bit longer discussion on Kentucky tonight.
A few weeks juvenile justice system.
I mean, we've read a lot about that.
And we know about some of those tragic incidents there.
And so is this a bipartisan effort and what can we expect either from the Senate?
We know Whitney Westerfield, you can tell me what year it was Senate Bill, 200 that address this a few years ago.
And we know that did make some changes when it comes to status offenders, et cetera.
But now there's some deeper issues here that needs to be addressed.
And the governor alluded to those in his address tonight.
>> Well, the biggest issue on the U.S. is one where the city of Louisville shut down their just their juvenile center because they want to run it.
One of us to pay for.
We have to address that issue.
The second biggest issue in the U.S. is the fact the Department of Juvenile Justice who has control of the signing these young men and young women to facilities.
We're assigning public offenders which are criminal acts and placing some of these.
Young man and young women in facilities that were low security facilities with individuals who work status offenders.
Basically a status offense is not attending school.
Yes, limit.
See things of that nature and you are mixing and mingling them based on what this administration and how they were classifying them.
Simple fix.
They've been doing this for 3 years, creating this problem.
And now it created a bigger problem because they moved all the women in northern Kentucky.
And it's creating a fiscal problem for.
County 2, 3, hours away to try to transport a juvenile female hours and then turn around the next day or 2 and then transport them back to be in court.
The system was there if they had appropriately assigned.
The offender be at status or public defender to the right facility.
But that's been a failure.
The administration.
Yeah, we're going to deal with it.
Governor actually called us on this one, but it has been a failure of them probably sign not the courts.
And you can see the former chief justices letter talking about that.
And I think John changeover pretty good article about it is been a failure of this administration to do what was necessary to appropriately segregate the populations.
Any final comment and word on that?
>> There's it is tragic.
And it's something that that has to be addressed.
I think the the kind of the band approach that that has has gone on since these these most recent tragedies will will give some temporary But it's a much, much bigger issue that that hopefully it is a place to bring in Ben some some common ground with this governor and I know Representative Miss as well as Representative Kevin Bratcher are working on on 2 pieces of legislation that hopefully will will be filed to try some bring some solution to the problem.
>> Well, thank you, Mister Speaker and thank you, Mister President.
I think one of you, maybe both of you will be with me Monday night on Kentucky tonight.
When we talk these issues, more in depth, we're going to work on that.
In the meantime, we hope to see that one or both of them back to a look and see.
>> Haha, they're catching on to me.
Thank you all at home for watching tonight.
You can always go back online at KET DOT org and watch all of this again in parts of it.
If you miss some of it.
>> Of course you can tune in tomorrow night for Kentucky edition at 6.30, Eastern 5.30, central recap today's events and the events in the Legislature tomorrow.
Thank you again for watching.
I'm Renee Shaw.
Take good care and I'll see you soon.
♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪